Arsenal are finalising the deal to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino during this summer transfer window, according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
The Gunners have been in talks with the La Liga club over the 28-year-old for a while, and everything is pointing towards a positive conclusion given recent developments.
Sociedad manager Imanol Alguacil left Merino out of the matchday squad that faced Rayo Vallecano today, and it is safe to say that the Spain international has played his last game for the club.
Arsenal have only added Italy international defender Riccardo Calafiori to their senior ranks so far this summer after signing goalkeeper David Raya permanently, and Merino is expected to be the final piece of the puzzle as manager Mikel Arteta looks to assemble a squad capable of giving Manchester City a run for their money.
The Etihad Stadium club have won the last four Premier League titles and are aiming to clinch a fifth consecutive prize this term.
However, the North London club are ready to stop them after back-to-back near misses, and Arteta will be confident they can finally go one better and win their first Premier League title since 2004.
The arrival of Merino could make that possible given the qualities and huge experience he brings to the table.
He has played 242 games for La Real since joining them from Newcastle United in the summer of 2018, weighing in with 27 goals and 30 assists.
The Euro 2024 winner has featured as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, attacking midfielder and a centre-back for the Spanish top-flight club, and Arsenal could do with such a versatile and talented player in their team.
The move for him could be finalised this week from the look of things, and he could be available for selection when the Gunners take on Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday.
